Shelby Benford is among five students statewide selected to receive a Georgia Foundation for Agriculture Technical College Scholarship for Agriculture. Benford, a recent graduate of Locust Grove High School, will receive a $1,500 scholarship as she plans to attend Gwinnett Technical College in the fall to study to become a veterinary technician.  Shelby has many dreams to help with the care and welfare of animals including possibly opening her own “no kill” animal shelter.  

The Farm Bureau scholarships recognize deserving and outstanding students who plan to pursue a degree in agriculture or an ag-related degree at a college in the University System of Georgia, Berry College or Emmanuel College.

  “Agriculture is Georgia’s leading economic sector. The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture would like to keep it that way, which is why it continues to invest in the bright minds that will power our industry in the future,” said Lily Baucom, executive director of the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture (GFA). 

  Benford, the daughter of Kenda and Jim Benford of Locust Grove, has been an FFA member throughout high school. During this time, Shelby volunteered with the annual camp her FFA Chapter holds for local elementary students  in the summer. She was also a member of the chapter’s Veterinary Science Career Development Experience team.  FFA awards Shelby earned during high school  include her Greenhand Degree in 2017,  her Chapter Degree  and Star  Chapter   Placement  in 2018. Her Supervised Agricultural Experience in Small Animal  Production & Care was named Most Outstanding in 2018 and 2019.

  The GFA is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to advancing Georgia agriculture and creating healthy communities. The GFA works with Georgia Farm Bureau and other agricultural and educational organizations throughout Georgia to achieve its mission. The foundation is governed by a board of directors comprised of farmers, educators and Georgia agricultural leaders.  

  To achieve its mission, the GFA funds projects that increase the public’s understanding of agriculture; offers scholarships to students pursuing careers in agriculture and funds leadership development programs. To make a tax-deductible donation or learn more about the foundation, visit www.gafoundationag.org or contact GFA Executive Director Lily Baucom at 478-405-3461 or lrbaucom@gfb.org.  

  In 2020 the GFA awarded $65,000 to students in the form of scholarships.  Instructions for applying for the 2021 scholarships will be announced on the foundation website in the fall.